Charlotte, NC -- (Sports Network) - Longtime Carolina Panthers defensive end Mike Rucker announced his retirement on Tuesday.

The University of Nebraska product ranks second in Panthers' history with 553 tackles and 55 1/2 sacks.

"Carolina is the only place where I have been in the NFL, and I am proud to play with one team and one ownership," Rucker said.

Over his nine-year career, the Panthers' 1999 second-round pick missed just five games and was a staple on one of the league's best defensive lines. Rucker tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee late in the 2006 season, but returned last year to record 57 tackles and three sacks.

In February, Rucker decided to play one more season, but the veteran had second thoughts and the Panthers didn't re-sign him.

The 33-year old ranks third in Carolina history with 139 games played.